Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Communication Design

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Communication Design at Heriot Watt University UK is your gateway to mastering the art and science of visual communication. This undergraduate degree is crafted for aspiring designers eager to explore conceptual, applied, and entrepreneurial practices across diverse media. You will delve into design thinking, transforming complex information into ethical, meaningful, and inclusive communication experiences. The programme encourages you to analyse collaborative dynamics, socially conscious agendas, and critical design research, preparing you for a dynamic field where innovative visual storytelling is paramount.

You will develop your skills through hands-on experience in areas such as graphic design, typography, illustration, photography, videography, and interaction design (UX/UI). Studied full-time on campus over four years, this degree progresses from foundational skills in Year 1 to specialist topics and elective pathways in subsequent years, culminating in a significant honours project in your final year. You will graduate with a portfolio showcasing your expertise and the critical, creative, and professional competencies demanded by the global design industry.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of communication design, guiding students from foundational concepts to advanced professional practice. Across four years, you will delve into core areas such as creative media, photography, graphic design, typography, and illustration. The curriculum progresses through stages of discovery, development, and advanced application, culminating in significant final projects and a focus on collaborative and evaluative skills within a studio environment.

1 Year 1

Rethinking Design 2: Develop and Deliver Compulsory
Rethinking Design 1: Discover and Define Compulsory
Introduction to Communication Design Compulsory
Introduction to Creative Media Compulsory
Introduction to Photography Compulsory

2 Year 2

Intermediate Photography Compulsory
Creative Digital Technologies Compulsory
Promotion & Advertising Compulsory
Graphic Design, Typography & Illustration Compulsory

3 Year 3

Art Direction and Storytelling Compulsory
Design Branding Compulsory
Advanced Communication Design Compulsory
Collaborative Studio Compulsory

4 Year 4

Final Project 1 Compulsory
Minor Project Compulsory
Final Project 2 Compulsory
Advanced Practice and Evaluation Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

15% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,102.00 USD 27,142.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,142.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,142.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,142.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 104,528.00 USD 108,568.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 503.00 - USD 2,667.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Edinburgh Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesBroadcasting & TelevisionCorporate Finance & TreasuryCosmetics & BeautyCreative & ContentCybersecurity & Network SecurityDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringFashion Technology & E-CommerceInsurance & Risk ManagementSupply Chain & Food Logistics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

Apple

Microsoft

Qirtas

Sky Group

Tesco

Why Study BA (Hons) Communication Design at Heriot Watt University UK

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Heriot Watt University UK in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA (Hons) Communication Design at Heriot Watt University UK

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language proficiency, you can submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores. Minimum requirements include a TOEFL overall score of 79 or an IELTS score of 6.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Graphic Designer, UX/UI Designer, Illustrator, and Marketing Specialist.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on visual communication and design thinking, nurturing skills in graphic design, typography, and UX/UI. You'll gain hands-on experience through projects that culminate in a comprehensive final year honors project.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Communication Design program starts in September. Make sure to check application deadlines to secure your spot.
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